In massive news, M&C Saatchi has been appointed lead creative agency to the nation’s largest bank, Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

Commonwealth Bank Chief Marketing & Online Officer Andy Lark (pictured 3rd left with M&C Saatchi Worldwide Chairman Tom Dery, CommBank GM Brand & Broadcast Monique MacLeod and M&C Saatchi Melbourne MD Jo Rozario) and his team came to the agency to announce the good news to staff on Friday 17/2/12.

M&C Saatchi beat US-based incumbent Goodby Silverstein & Partners and DDB to the large account.

“Throughout the process we saw outstanding strategic and creative thinking, delivered by what is clearly world-class talent,” Andy Lark said of the pitch process.

“We are excited about working with Australian company, M&C Saatchi, as our new lead agency, on what will be one of the major brand campaigns of 2012 and beyond.”

Tom Dery described the win as “gratifying”.

“We are excited by the opportunity to again work with a Big Four bank, especially one as large, prestigious and successful as Commonwealth Bank.

"(M&C Saatchi Australia MD) David Whittle and the team did a first rate series of presentations throughout the pitch. We have a very strong and capable team with a great deal of banking experience.”

M&C Saatchi Regional Creative Director Asia Pacific Tom McFarlane is "looking forward to working on such a famous Australian brand”.